Hyperbolic Metamaterials via Hierarchical Block Copolymer Nanostructures

Abstract

Hyperbolic metamaterials (HMMs) offer unconventional properties in the field of optics, enabling the opportunity for confinement and propagation of light at the nanoscale. In-plane orientation of the optical axis, in the direction coinciding with the anisotropy of the HMMs, is desirable for a variety of novel applications in nanophotonics and imaging. Here, we introduce a method for creating localized HMMs with in-plane optical axis based on block copolymers (BCPs) blend instability. The dewetting of BCP thin film over topographically defined substrates generates droplets composed of highly ordered lamellar nanostructures in hierarchical configuration. The hierarchical nanostructures represent a valuable platform for the subsequent pattern transfer into a Au/air HMM, exhibiting hyperbolic behavior in a broad wavelength range in the visible spectrum. A computed Purcell factor as high as 32 at 580 nm supports the strong reduction in the fluorescence lifetime of defects in nanodiamonds placed on top of the HMM.

Hyperbolic metamaterials: fusing artificial structures to natural 2D materials

“…In addition to the examples introduced above, various materials are expected to be evaluated as candidates for active or switchable devices that have many potential applications. Finally, straightforward and inexpensive fabrication technologies for the realization of large-area hyperbolic media and patterns would also be beneficial [268]. Recently, various designs other than the multilayer and nanowire structures are proposed such as 3D nanorod arrays [127], core-shell nanoparticles [269,270], hyperbolic van der Waals crystals [271], and films of carbon nanotubes [272].…”

Cyanostilbene‐Based AIEgen Smart Film: Optical Switching by Engineering Molecular Packing Structure and Molecular Conformation Through Thermal and Photoinduced Monotropic Phase Transition

“…[ 7–12 ] In practice, the controlled molecular packing structures and programmed phase transitions of soft materials had a critical effect on maximizing target properties in various fields. [ 13–18 ]…”

Control of near-infrared dye fluorescence lifetime in all-polymer microcavities

“…[24][25][26][27][28][29] Even though careful molecular design, 30 supramolecular assemblies [31][32][33] and dye blends 34,35 provide an approach to fluorescence kinetics control, using photonic structures offers an additional tool having broad applicability, high effectiveness and straightforward experimental method. 19,36,37 This offers more flexibility in achieving fluorescence control in solid state devices through simply incorporating the microcavities without changing the dye system, in particular when polymer and flexible materials are used. While different polymer-based fluorophores were investigated in polymer cavities supporting whispering-gallery modes, [38][39][40] they require more sophisticated nano lithographic or selfassembly fabrication that can be difficult to scale and more prone to disorder.…”

“…[24][25][26][27][28][29] Even though careful molecular design, 30 supramolecular assemblies [31][32][33] and dye blends 34,35 provide an approach to fluorescence kinetics control, using photonic structures offers an additional tool having broad applicability, high effectiveness and straight-forward experimental method. 19,36,37 This offers more flexibility in achieving fluorescence control in solid state devices through simply incorporating the microcavities without changing the dye system, in particular when polymer and flexible materials are used.…”